1974 Datsun 260Z vs. 2012 Hyundai Elantra

To start off, 2012 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Datsun 260Z would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Datsun 260Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Datsun 260Z (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (145 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Datsun 260Z should accelerate faster than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 25 kg more than 1974 Datsun 260Z.

Because 1974 Datsun 260Z is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Datsun 260Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Elantra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1974 Datsun 260Z (213 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (176 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1974 Datsun 260Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. 2012 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 1974 Datsun 260Z has manual transmission. 1974 Datsun 260Z will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1974 Datsun 260Z 2012 Hyundai Elantra
Make Datsun Hyundai
Model 260Z Elantra
Year Released 1974 2012
Body Type Hatchback Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2565 cc 1800 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 163 HP 145 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 213 Nm 176 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 4700 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1200 kg 1225 kg
Vehicle Length 4450 mm 4529 mm
Vehicle Width 1630 mm 1775 mm
Vehicle Height 1290 mm 1435 mm
Wheelbase Size 2581 mm 2700 mm
Fuel Consumption Highway 8.4 L/100km 5.9 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 12 L/100km 8.1 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 60 L 48 L